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Prayer

What to pray when you have no words

Try a prayer short enough to say in a single sentence: “God, you know what is on my heart. Be with me here.” You can leave the rest in silence.

Choose a word you can stay with

If a sentence feels like too much, try “help,” “thank you,” or simply “God.” Say it once and give yourself time before deciding whether to say anything else. You can write the word instead if speaking feels difficult.

Borrow words from a psalm

Psalm 13 begins with questions and gives sorrow room to speak. Read its opening slowly. Notice whether one line expresses something you have been trying to put into words. Let that line stand as your prayer, with its questions still open.

Make room for company

Sometimes another person can help you carry the moment. Consider asking someone you trust to sit with you, pray with you, or simply check in later. You can ask in one line without explaining everything.

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